If your car has failed its MOT or been damaged beyond repair in an accident, you may decide it's time to scrap it and cut your losses. When looking into a scrap car collection service, you might come across ATF. These initials stand for Authorised Treatment Facility. In this blog, we’ll explore these facilities and why reputable scrap services, like Motorwise, exclusively use them for scrapping cars.

<h2>What are Authorised Treatment Facilities?</h2>

In the UK, Authorised Treatment Facilities (ATFs) are the only organisations legally permitted to scrap vehicles and issue a Certificate of Destruction (COD). While they are often referred to as scrap car breakers or scrap yards, they have been officially licensed by the Environment Agency. This licensing ensures they meet stringent standards for quality, safety, sustainability, and approved business practices.

<h2>Why are ATFs Important?</h2>

The 2013 Scrap Metal Dealers Act made receiving cash payments for scrap cars illegal. This legislation was introduced to combat criminal activities in which unscrupulous scrappers and car thieves steal vehicles and scrap them for untraceable cash payments.

Today, ATFs play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of the car scrapping process. They require individuals scrapping cars to provide proof of ID and address, which helps prevent illegal activities. Moreover, ATFs have the necessary skills and equipment to safely depollute vehicles, removing hazardous materials before the cars are destroyed.

UK legislation mandates that 95% of a scrapped car must be recycled. ATFs meticulously separate steel, plastics, wood, and other materials, ensuring they are repurposed rather than ending up in landfills where they could harm the environment. This recycling process helps conserve resources and reduces the environmental impact of scrapped vehicles.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will only accept Certificates of Destruction issued by authorised ATFs, further emphasising the importance of using licensed facilities.

<h2>The Environmental Benefits of Using ATFs</h2>

ATFs are not only about legal compliance but also about environmental stewardship. The recycling process carried out by these facilities ensures that materials are reused, reducing the need for new raw materials. For example, recycled steel from scrapped cars can be used in the construction industry, while plastics can be repurposed for various manufacturing processes.

By depolluting vehicles, ATFs prevent harmful substances such as oil, coolant, and brake fluids from contaminating soil and water. This careful handling of hazardous materials protects both local ecosystems and public health.

<h2>Scrap Collection You Can Count On</h2>

Car owners can rely on Motorwise for expert assistance and a trusted service. Motorwise works exclusively with fully licensed Authorised Treatment Facilities (ATFs), ensuring their scrap vehicle is legally and responsibly disposed of.

When you choose Motorwise, you can book your collection easily and receive a free quote. While cash payments are no longer an option, you will receive the best possible price for your scrap car directly into your bank account.

<h2>In Summary</h2>

Scrapping your car through an Authorised Treatment Facility is a legal requirement and a responsible choice for the environment. ATFs ensure that your vehicle is depolluted, dismantled, and recycled correctly, preventing environmental harm and supporting sustainability efforts. By choosing a reputable scrap service like Motorwise, you can be confident that your car is handled by professionals who adhere to the highest safety and environmental care standards.

If you're ready to scrap your car, contact Motorwise today to book your collection or visit our website for a free quote. Trust Motorwise to provide a seamless, legal, and environmentally friendly car scrapping service.